Hera Pheri 3 in Turmoil: Paresh Rawal Quits, Leaves Cast & Crew Stunned
In a stunning twist that has shocked fans and the film fraternity alike, Hera Pheri 3—the third part of the most loved comedy franchise in India—is now embroiled in drama.
Paresh Rawal, who immortalised the character Babu Bhaiyya, has reportedly quit the film, leaving Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty dumbfounded.
Priyadarshan Reacts: “He Didn’t Even Tell Me Before He Announced It to the Media”
Veteran director Priyadarshan, who is directing the third part, finally got back to Ashram at 81 and expressed his disappointment at Rawal’s departure, calling it “disappointing” and “sudden”.
In a recent interview from Thiruvananthapuram, Priyadarshan was completely shocked by Rawal’s sudden departure:
“I am very hurt and shocked. Paresh didn’t tell any of us. He could have just called me and told me before going to the media. We have been friends for such a long time.”
IPL Shoot, Then Silence: A Sudden U-Turn
What’s even more bizarre is that just a week ago, Akshay, Suniel, and Paresh shot a scene in the film and a teaser around the IPL.
“All three actors shot together ten days ago. It was only after unanimous decision to go ahead that Akshay bought the rights for the franchise.”
“Akshay Should Not Pay for the Slip-Up”
Priyadarshan disclosed that Akshay Kumar, who acted in the film and is also a producer, was emotionally shaken by the unfathomable situation.
“Akshay was crying, and asked me, ‘Priyan, what is Paresh doing to us? He plays someone whose wife ran out on him and we’ll never know if that he is blackmailing, emotionally and financially blackmailing us. He should not have to take a hit because Paresh has this sudden whim.”
₹25 Crore Lawsuit & No Artistic Disputes, Says Priyadarshan
According to reports, Akshay is bringing a lawsuit against Paresh Rawal for ₹25 crore for breach of contract. Rawal has claimed that money was not the issue, but Priyadarshan has supported the legal gives and taken a straight line.
When asked about speculation about artistic differences, which led to disagreements about screen time shared among the trio, Priyadarshan was clear:
“With me, Akshay has never cut anyone’s role. He doesn’t interfere with the director’s outlook at all. And there didn’t seem to be issues with payments – contracts were signed.”
He also contested Rawal’s own claims that he tried to get him to stay:
“He never told me he was leaving. When I tried to call him, he texted me, ‘Don’t call me. This is my decision and it’s nothing to do with you.'”
Can Hera Pheri 3 Exist Without Babu Bhaiyya?
The biggest question that remains is: can Hera Pheri 3 exist without Babu Bhaiyya, a character which has reached cult status and is ingrained in Indian pop culture?
While makers are mum on who would replace him or if they are looking to rewrite the roles, online fans are already mourning what might be the loss of the original trio pairing.
Meanwhile, it is believed there are internal discussions on the project to salvage it.
Box Office Worldwide Verdict
- Shock Factor: Paresh Rawal’s abrupt departure from Hera Pheri 3 has sent the franchise into a freefall.
- Emotional Impact: Priyadarshan’s account reads like a tale of deception and emotional turmoil, especially for Akshay Kumar.
- Franchise Under Threat: Rawal’s Babu Bhaiyya replacement will be you may not be able to replicate, and the tone will impact audience interest.
- Legal Showdown: The introduction of the lawsuits in the current narrative could bring off-the-screen events into the narrative and outshine any attempt for a film revival.
Conclusion
The future of Hera Pheri 3 now hangs in the balance, as the team regroups.
As for the fans, the dream of seeing Raju, Shyam, and Babu Bhaiyya together will seem even more elusive.
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